Early Years (ages 2-4)
We believe early childhood education sets the stage for a lifetime of learning. Our Early Years program follows the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards (IELDS) while incorporating faith-based values and International Baccalaureate (IB) Early Years approaches to nurture well-rounded, curious, and confident learners.
These standards guide our youngest Eagles as they develop language, cognitive thinking, social-emotional growth, and physical development skills. By blending structured learning, inquiry-based exploration, and a nurturing, play-based environment, we ensure that each child is prepared for kindergarten and beyond.
🌟 Language Development: Building Strong Communicators
Preschoolers develop communication skills through engaging in activities that encourage:
✔ Expanding vocabulary through stories, songs, and conversations.
✔ Using language for different purposes, from asking questions to expressing ideas.
✔ Building early literacy skills, setting the foundation for reading and writing success.
🧠 Cognitive Development: Encouraging Curious Thinkers
Through hands-on, inquiry-based learning, HFCA preschoolers are encouraged to:
✔ Explore their environment through play, STEM activities, and interactive learning.
✔ Ask meaningful questions and make connections between ideas.
✔ Develop critical thinking skills, fostering a natural love for learning.
💙 Social-Emotional Development: Growing with Compassion and Confidence
Rooted in our Catholic values and IB’s Learner Profile, our preschoolers learn:
✔ Self-awareness and emotional regulation, helping them navigate challenges.
✔ Empathy and kindness, strengthening friendships and collaboration.
✔ Confidence and independence, preparing them for future group learning experiences.
🏃♂️ Physical Development: Strengthening Bodies and Minds
HFCA’s preschool ensures children develop essential motor skills through:
✔ Gross motor activities like outdoor play, movement games, and physical education.
✔ Fine motor exercises such as writing, cutting, and hands-on creative projects.
✔ Healthy habits that promote lifelong well-being.
By aligning our preschool curriculum with IELDS, IB Early Years approaches, and faith-based learning, we provide a comprehensive and engaging early childhood experience. Families play an essential role in reinforcing these skills at home, and we partner with parents to support each child's unique growth and development.
HFCA’s preschool is designed to ignite a love of learning, develop global awareness, and foster faith and character. We invite you to experience our program firsthand—meet our teachers, explore our classrooms, and see why our families love being part of the HFCA community!
